Are Smelling Salts Allowed in the UFC?
Are Smelling Salts Allowed in the UFC?
By Jason Bolton June 25, 2024 05:28
Traditionally, smelling salts have been employed as a medical remedy to revive those who have twained or lost consciousness. Typically, this is in the form of crushed ammonium carbonate, the volatilization of ammoniac causing irritation to the inhaler's olfactory and respiratory senses, thus providing relief or even awakening an unconscious individual. Its historical use can be traced back to ancient times and is well documented in several medical and sporting environments, including combat sports such as boxing and MMA.
UFC Policies and Protocols Regarding Smelling Salts
The UFC does not have any explicit rules regarding smelling salts. However, smelling salts are not on the list of intimated equipment allowed in a UFC fighter's corner for use by athletic commissions, such as the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC), which oversees UFC events. The legal position of smelling salts in the UFC has been the subject of debate and discussion, especially given the controversy around what happened to Yan Xiaonan's corner at UFC 300.
While smelling salts are not listed among illegal substances within the UFC, their status as a legal element remains ambiguous; additionally, it addresses concerns of fairness and potential health hazards in their use. The UFC might need to get specific on whether fighters can open a pack of smelling salts for fairness and safety syndrome.
PROS and CONS of Smelling Salts in the UFC
The benefits of using smelling salts in UFC potentiate the exposure that a fighter needs to quickly overcome being stunned or unconscious from multiple blows during combat. This might help the fighter bounce back and perform better during the match. But the use of smelling salts in MMA has also raised questions as to the potential short-term and long-term consequences for the fighters. Overdosing on smelling salts harms the lungs, and the stimulant may conceal what an opponent feels or mask their consciousness level, which has a significant impact on fighter health and readiness.
Options for UFC Fighters in Place of Smelling Salts
Other methods of reviving themselves or pumping themselves pre-fight include cold water and ice pack physical stimulation. While smelling salts pose health risks, these alternatives could work in similar mechanisms and provide similar reviving effects. Fighters and their corners need to look to safer, more regulated methods of helping the fighter recover.
This raises many important questions about whether this is fair and safe and what precisely the level should be at which fighters can sense danger and stop themselves before it is too late. Though the UFC has not overtly banned them, the legality of their implementation and ethical implications are up for further discussion.
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